Why technology can help construction’s theft problem

IOT-enabled asset tracking solves this problem by enabling civil engineering firms to track every piece of machinery in real time. Image: Adobe Stock

Construction projects are high-stakes operations, often spread over large and complex sites with numerous assets on the move. As the world develops and new economies grow, so infrastructure expands too, whether it be rail network, canals or pipelines, often traversing vast and remote land masses.

On large scale projects, heavy equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes, can be easily misplaced or stolen on sites where hundreds of people and machines are working simultaneously. For a project on a tight timeline and budget, losing a single critical asset can have serious consequences.

IoT (internet of things) enabled asset tracking solves this problem by enabling civil engineering firms to track every piece of machinery in real time. With satellite-enabled asset tracking, companies can monitor each item’s exact location, operational status, even fuel consumption, wherever they are. This level of insight not only helps reduce the risk of theft but also enhances project management by allowing managers to allocate resources more effectively.

For example, geofencing capabilities let managers set virtual boundaries around assets. If a machine moves outside its designated area, the system sends an alert, enabling immediate action to prevent theft. This proactive approach helps protect assets in environments where security can be a challenge.

Satellite IoT leverages the power of global satellite networks to track assets far beyond cell towers and networks which rely on terrestrial infrastructure. As satellite connectivity becomes more accessible and affordable, its global reach is ideal for long-distance transportation, isolated job sites and industrial environments that are far removed from cellular infrastructure.

Whether it’s an asset in the heart of the Amazon or the outskirts of a remote village, satellite IoT can pinpoint its location to within just a few metres. And asset tracking devices can do more than just provide location data; if needed they can provide vital telemetry data. In transportation settings, for example, devices can transmit multiple IoT sensors’ data to facilitate predictive maintenance. Service lights, tyre pressure, fuel consumption, oil analysis and vibration are key to ensuring a fleet remains operational.

How does satellite IoT tracking work?

On large scale projects, heavy equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes, can be easily misplaced or stolen. Image: Adobe Stock

By attaching sensors and tracking devices to physical assets – whether they’re tractors, cranes, or excavators – data can be collected on each asset’s precise position, usage and condition, sending updates to a central management system in real time.

When assets are out of cellular range, satellite-enabled IoT trackers come into play. Unlike traditional trackers that rely solely on cellular infrastructure, satellite IoT can deliver connectivity anywhere, however remote or off-grid it may be.

This approach to tracking is not only proving effective but affordable too. By leveraging low-power sensors and small satellite-enabled devices, IoT tracking allows companies to maintain oversight without the high costs associated with traditional monitoring or security solutions. The low-cost nature of IoT tracking also makes it scalable, allowing companies to start with a few critical assets and then scale up to cover their entire fleet or operation as required.

To deliver accurate tracking data, satellite IoT relies on a three-part system. The first, and often coined the backbone of satellite IoT, is the satellite networks themselves, including GNSS and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which provide global coverage and high precision.

The second is IoT enabled trackers. Attached to each asset, these small devices communicate with the satellites, sending and receiving location and other data continuously. They’re designed to be low power, ensuring long-term functionality without frequent recharging.

The construction industry is increasingly embracing new technology. Image: Adobe Stock

And finally, the data collected flows into a centralised cloud-based platform, where one can view assets in real time, analyse historical data, and make informed decisions based on local prevailing conditions.

Construction’s technological future

The construction industry stands at a crossroads, where traditional challenges like theft and inefficiency meet the transformative potential of technology. As we continue to push the boundaries of infrastructure, building networks and systems that span continents and remote terrains, the case for embracing advanced asset management solutions like satellite IoT has never been stronger.

By providing unparalleled visibility and control over assets, these technologies not only safeguard valuable equipment but also empower project managers to work smarter, not harder.

In an industry where time, security, and precision are critical, satellite-enabled asset tracking is an essential ally in delivering projects on time, within budget, and with confidence. The future of construction lies in leveraging innovation to address its most persistent issues, and satellite IoT is leading the charge.

Alastair MacLeod is CEO of Ground Control.